ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SNOWMOBILING IN ICELAND – TOURS, TIPS, AND GEAR

In the Land of Fire and Ice, one of the most fun things you can do is go snowmobiling. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what to expect and how you should prepare for one of our snowmobile tours in Iceland. Some are beginner-friendly, while others are more adventurous trips.

This article will cover practicalities such as safety measures, the gear you’ll be issued with, the physical requirements of this thrilling activity and what time of year you’ll be able to book it. We’ll also show you how to take environmental considerations into account and discuss the best practices for minimising your impact on Iceland’s delicate ecosystems.

Both Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull are popular choices for snowmobilers in Iceland. Up on the glacier, you’re faced with a vast expanse of whiteness as the snow-covered glacier stretches in front of you. Close up, you’ll start to appreciate the detail: the blue ice of its crevasses, frozen icefalls and the streaks of black volcanic ash that indicate past eruptions.

Though you might also have a glacier-based experience further east on one of Vatnajökull’s outlet glacier, these are more easily accessible as they’re located closer to Reykjavik. You can incorporate a snowmobile ride as an add-on to sightseeing in the Golden Circle region or along the south coast.

We offer a number of snowmobile tours, from standalone activities to rides that form part of longer sightseeing tours. In addition, those participating in our Askur Ice Cave Adventure will reach their destination on either a buggy or a snowmobile. While you’re in Iceland, a glacier day tour is the ideal upgrade to inject some fun into your itinerary. Let’s take a brief look at the tours we operate so that you can work out which one is the best fit for you and your group.

Our Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobiling Tour combines the extraordinary landscapes of Iceland’s premier sightseeing route with an adrenaline-fuelled ride across its second largest glacier. Stroll through the Almannagjá Gorge in Þingvellir National Park; experience the wonder of Geysir Geothermal Area and the power of Gullfoss waterfall.

Langjökull is one of the gems of Iceland’s highlands and as you wrap up this memorable day you’ll traverse its remarkable terrain on a one-hour ride. This adventure is available all year round and can accommodate children from the age of six as passengers. Adults in possession of a driving licence can choose to ride as a couple or upgrade to have sole use of the snowmobile.

Drama is the order of the day on our South Coast Glacier Snowmobiling Adventure. This super tour pairs an exhilarating snowmobile ride on Mýrdalsjökull with the chance to visit two of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls – Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. These two landmark waterfalls are a must-see for visitors to the country’s beautiful south coast.

Alternatively, opt for our Snowmobile Adventure on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier Tour. Meet your guide at Mýrdalsjökull Base Camp close to Iceland’s stunning south coast. You’ll clamber on board a massive truck that’s specially adapted to be able to cope with the uneven terrain; deflating the tyres gives this impressive vehicle more grip.

Once up on the glacier, fully briefed, you’ll enjoy an incredible one-hour ride on this magnificent glacier. Even in summer, it’s possible to glide across the icy surface of Mýrdalsjökull and admire this pristine environment. Children aged eight and over can ride behind an adult, making this a fun activity for adventurous families.

Winter activities in Iceland are a real thrill but also often involve being outside in inclement weather. There are certain things you need to be abreast of when it comes to snowmobiling tours, so let’s hone in on the practical information that you need to know to be fully prepared for this adrenaline-fuelled adventure.

Who can book a snowmobile tour?

The first thing we’ll ask for is proof you are qualified to drive, so make sure you bring a valid driving licence if you’re intending to be the one up front. Aside from this, if you’ll be in the driving seat, you can be a complete novice. We welcome beginners: it’s pretty easy to learn how to operate a snowmobile and in any case, full instruction is given.

If you don’t drive, that doesn’t mean you can’t participate – you can be a passenger instead. You won’t need a licence to ride pillion. In fact, this also includes children, as our tours are suitable for those aged eight and upwards. If your party contains novice riders, consider starting with a shorter tour so that they can build confidence.

There are a few other considerations to take into account before booking. Posture’s important: if you suffer from severe back problems, think carefully about whether a bumpy ride is something that you are physically able to cope with. In addition, there’s a weight limit on the snowmobiles – usually somewhere in the region of 250 to 300kg but enquire upfront if you are concerned this will affect you.

What to wear

If you show up for one of our Iceland snowmobile tours you will be given the outdoor gear you need. A set of overalls provides protection against the weather and would also help prevent injuries in the unlikely event of you taking an unexpected tumble. Nevertheless, you need to wear the right kind of clothing underneath.

When you’re up on the glaciers, it will feel colder than many other places in Iceland, particularly if the wind picks up or it starts to snow. Even in summer, you’ll be glad of warm layers and it’s wise to bear in mind that conditions can change very quickly – just because it was mild and sunny when you set off doesn’t mean that it will stay that way.

Make sure you start with a good quality thermal base layer and comfortable clothing on top that allows for ease of movement. Waterproof boots and thick socks are also a must. On the outside, a waterproof and warm jacket is essential – make sure it will tuck inside your overalls – as is a hat that will fit snugly underneath your helmet. We’ll supply a balaclava, goggles and gloves to make sure your face and hands are protected against the elements.

How to stay safe

Snowmobiling in Iceland is fun, but as with any adventurous activity, it’s not without its risks. Therefore, our snowmobile tours in Iceland all begin with a comprehensive safety briefing. This is so important – we want you to enjoy yourself but keep yourself and others safe in the process.

Your guide will take some time explaining the safety procedures on the tour, what to do in the event of an emergency and how to navigate as you traverse the uneven terrain of the glacier. There’ll be plenty of opportunity for you to ask questions so that you feel confident as you set off behind your guide.

Typically, our guide will cover matters such as how to operate the snowmobile. You’ll receive instruction on how to start the engine and, even more importantly, bring the snowmobile to a stop. You’ll be shown how to alter your speed as well as turn. Clear communication will be vital; the guide will demonstrate the hand signals they want you to adopt.

Good to know

Our snowmobiling tours run throughout the year. As they’re daytime activities for safety reasons, you won’t see the Northern Lights while you’re riding, but it’s a definite possibility at the end of the day if darkness has fallen. Occasionally, bad weather means we have to postpone a tour, so though snowmobiling is obviously one of Iceland’s most attractive winter activities, you might wish to schedule it for early in your trip so that you have the ability to rearrange your plans if necessary.

Snowmobiles are a common sight in Iceland, serving as both popular recreational vehicles for locals and essential tools for daily life. Beyond their role in tourism, snowmobiles are vital for search and rescue teams navigating the rugged terrain and for farmers living in remote areas with limited winter road service. But like all vehicles, they need to be used responsibly and Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia is always mindful of the potential impact on the landscape.

Iceland’s natural environment and ecosystems are fragile. They need to be carefully managed to ensure lasting damage isn’t done. One of the most effective ways we do this is by sticking to designated trails. It’s why you must always stick to the route your guide tells you to use and never deviate to venture “off-road” onto pristine ground.

Iceland’s glaciers are already under threat from the rising temperatures associated with long-term climate change, so it’s more vital than ever that we ensure we look after them. Future generations should be able to have the same experiences that we are enjoying, so causing lasting damage to precious vegetation and landscapes is never acceptable.

The chance to ride a snowmobile in Iceland allows visitors to venture into an icy wilderness. It’s one of the most accessible of the various Iceland glacier tours and you’re sure to have a lot of fun. Why not book yourself a spot and explore a different side to Iceland’s glaciers in a thrilling and unique way?